Background
Tibial plateau fractures are a common injury that require anatomic reduction to obtain the best functional results. Assisted arthroscopy seems to be more satisfactory in reducing the risks of open reduction and internal fixation.
Aim of the study
This study evaluated the functional results of percutaneous fixation of displaced tibial plateau fractures assisted by arthroscopy.
Patients and methods
The study was carried out between July 2012 and June 2013 in Suez Canal University Hospitals. This was a prospective study and 20 patients were included, 16 men and four women, mean age 40 years (range 21–72 years) at the time of surgery. Patients with closed tibial plateau fractures type I–IV according to the Schatzker classification were included in the study with step-off of the articular surface more than 3 mm and condylar widening more than 5 mm. All patients underwent preoperative and postoperative clinical and radiological assessment, and the outcomes were scored by the Rasmussen system.
Results
The results of the current study showed a significant difference between preoperative and postoperative Rasmussen scores. For the postoperative Rasmussen score, the median clinical score at the 1-year follow-up was 28 (range 22–30) and the median radiological score was 9 (range 6–10). According to clinical and radiological assessments, we found that 95% of the patients had satisfactory results. All fractures were united and no permanent complications developed.
Conclusion
Percutaneous fixation of displaced tibial plateau fractures with assisted arthroscopy is a safe and effective procedure with excellent results and early mobilization.